Al'S Ham And Beans
A hearty ham and bean stew with vegetables and savory seasonings, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut cooked ham into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the onion and dice the celery.
- In a large pot, cook the onion in olive oil until tender.
- Add the ham, corn, kidney beans, shell beans, celery, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper.
- Simmer for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using leftover ham from a holiday meal. If you don't have kidney or shell beans, white beans or black beans can be great substitutes. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor of the dish. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as some hams can be saltier than others.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty ham and beans dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It also goes well with crusty bread, perfect for scooping up the beans and sauce. Consider browsing more American recipes for other comforting options.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham and beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Al'S Ham And Beans contains roughly 701 calories, with 31g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (171% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), and protein (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 617mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the recipe. This could take 1-2 hours depending on the type of beans. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked before adding the other ingredients.
What can I serve with Al's Ham and Beans?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but it pairs well with cornbread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it alongside fried green tomatoes or biscuits for a Southern twist. For a heartier meal, consider providing some rice or mashed potatoes on the side.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked tempeh or a plant-based sausage for flavor. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to enhance the dish. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth. This way, you’ll retain the hearty feel of this dish without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).